Hello from Georgia, US

[Adonisus]

Greetings everyone.

So my diagnosis was rather recent. I'm currently 29, going on 30. Members of my family who have had experience as teachers and educators have suspected since I was a young child that I may have had Asperger's. Sadly, I guess that it wasn't as well understood back then as it is now because they never attempted to test me for it, even though I apparently showed many of the symptoms (withdrawn, quiet, strong dislike of loud noises, anxiety, etc.).

But after I had a panic attack at my place of work, I finally went to my doctor who in turn referred me to a psychiatrist. I was tested and, sure enough, found positive for Asperger's.

It made so much sense. I was so relieved that no, I'm NOT crazy. I realized that so much of my problems like my spotty work history, my extreme nervousness....and probably my still being single (that's a whole other conversation, though) are because I'm an Aspie.

Really, the one thing I'm afraid of now is trying to use my Asperger's as a crutch.

 

[Rocco]

Welcome aboard!
It's quite an adjustment, dealing with late diagnosis. You have found a splendid and friendly community of kindred spirits here, I hope you enjoy it.
Best wishes,

 

[Omega]

Welcome from another Georgian! You have found a great, understanding community.

 

[wyverary]

Welcome!

 

[Elemental]

Welcome to Aspiescentral Adonisus. Many of us on here were late-diagnosed ourselves & so will relate to the roller coaster responses that can generate. All the very best of luck & glad you found our community

 

[Progster]

Hi, and welcome to the forum. Finally getting a diagnosis and some answers can be a huge relief!

 

[SonoranPrincess]

Welcome! Many of us do a life review after receiving a late diagnoses. There is that "AHA moment," when we realize the winding, roller coaster ride of our social interactions has a basis in our Aspiness.

 

[Mia]

Greetings Adonisus from Canada.

 

[Judge]

Really, the one thing I'm afraid of now is trying to use my Asperger's as a crutch.

Try to think of your own self-awareness as a tool. One that allows you to try to be proactive about your traits and behaviors as best you can. And to accept those which you have little or no control over. In that respect it's no crutch.

Welcome to AC.

 

[watersprite]

Hi.
Welcome Adonisus.

 

[malortie]

Adonisus

Welcome to the forums.

It made so much sense. I was so relieved that no, I'm NOT crazy.

Sadly, I still am awaiting for my diagnosis, which I wish to have passed earlier in my life. I am convinced to have Asperger's as you and many people around here.

Really, the one thing I'm afraid of now is trying to use my Asperger's as a crutch.

An important thing many people around here, as well as me would recommend to you is to accept and embrace your differences. Try to avoid as much as possible to feel guilty for having Asperger's.

It is not your fault, so is nobody's. This is simply a different branch from which neurodiversity is taking it's pick. People here will be happy to help you figure out ways to deal with these kind of situations, which are not always easy.

One thing that you should remember from my words, and from those in this friendly community is that Asperger's is not a disorder, simply a set of characteristics and behavior that are uncommon within society. A different perception, analysis, applications of things.

Once again, a warm welcome, as every newcomer deserves.

 

[Cosmophylla]

Hi there, Adonisus, welcome to AC.